Tricks for Everyday Life: Simple But Useful Tricks That Actually Work
A life hacker should be familiar with some simple but effective life hacks to make daily routines more efficient. I’m not talking about the typical life hacks you’ve heard of, but practical ones that are easy to implement.
From quick cleaning tricks to organizing tips, as well as ways to keep your home smelling fresh and looking spotless, these tried-and-tested homemaking hacks can save you time and effort. Ready to learn how small changes can make a big impact on your everyday life? Let’s dive in!
1) Turn Any Plastic Bag into a Vacuum Storage Bag
Who doesn’t love saving space? Whether you’re storing items for a long time or packing for a trip, vacuum packing can be a lifesaver! You might think you need expensive vacuum-sealed bags, but you can easily use regular plastic bags, like those old trash bags you have lying around.
Here’s how you do it: Simply wrap the opening of the trash bag around the vacuum nozzle and suck out the air. This creates a vacuum effect, just like those pricey storage bags. Be sure to remove the vacuum nozzle carefully, making sure no air gets back inside!
This hack can save you both space and money—no need to buy special bags when you can make use of what you already have!
2) Toothpaste: The Nail Hole Filler You Already Have
When it’s time to move out, those annoying nail holes in your walls could cost you your security deposit. Instead of buying expensive wall filler, use something you probably already have—white, non-gel toothpaste! Simply squeeze the toothpaste into the hole, smooth it out with a damp cloth, and let it dry.
Once you repaint the wall, the holes will be completely gone. This simple, budget-friendly hack is a lifesaver and perfect for keeping your landlord happy!
3) Coffee Grounds to Fix Scratched Wood
Got scratches on your wooden furniture? Coffee grounds can help! Just rub some ground coffee onto the scratched area, and it will blend in with the wood, hiding the flaws.
This simple trick restores the polished look of your furniture, plus it’s affordable and eco-friendly—perfect for reusing your coffee remnants!
4) Protect Your Fingers While Hammering
Hammering nails can be risky, especially when you’re not paying close attention. To avoid painful accidents, use a simple tool like a bobby pin, clothespin, or comb to hold the nail in place.
This keeps your fingers safe and helps you set the nails more accurately. A great trick for DIYers of all skill levels!
5) Soak Tiles Before Cutting for Smoother Edges
Cutting hard tiles can lead to cracks, but soaking them in water for a few hours makes the process easier. The moisture softens the material, reducing the risk of breaks.
Combine this with precise measuring, and you’ll save time, effort, and avoid damaged tiles on your next home project!
6) Use Soap to Stop Squeaky Drawers
Tired of the annoying squeak from your wooden drawers? Don’t put up with the noise—fix it with soap! Simply rub a bar of soap or apply some liquid soap along the drawer rails where the wood meets.
The soap acts as a natural lubricant, reducing friction and eliminating the squeak. It’s an easy, cost-effective solution that keeps your drawers gliding smoothly without needing expensive repairs!
7) Remove Sticky Labels with a Hair Dryer
Struggling with stubborn stickers? Grab your hair dryer! Simply heat the sticker for a few seconds to loosen the adhesive, making it easier to peel off without leaving any sticky residue.
This hack is a quick, hassle-free way to remove labels and keep your items looking fresh—no chemicals or scrubbing required!
8) Use Vinegar to Restore Showerheads
If your showerhead is clogged with gunk or mineral buildup, you don’t need expensive cleaners. Simply fill a plastic bag with vinegar, secure it around the showerhead with a rubber band, and let it soak overnight.
In the morning, the buildup will be gone, and your shower’s water flow will be as good as new—saving you both money and frustration!
9) Raise Your Straw Hold tab
Struggling with holding a straw or tab? It can be a hassle, but here’s an easy trick to make it simpler. Use a piece of tape to secure the end of the straw or tab in place.
This creates a firmer grip, preventing it from slipping or moving around while you use it. Next time you’re dealing with a straw or tab that won’t stay put, try this easy hack to make things smoother!
10) Easiest Way to Thread a Needle
Threading a needle doesn’t have to be frustrating! Make it easier with this simple hack. Just tape the end of your thread to create a stiff tip, allowing it to easily slide through the needle’s eye.
The tape also prevents any fibers from getting stuck, making the process smoother and faster. Just be sure to fold the tape small enough to fit through the needle—if it’s too thick, it won’t work. Give it a try next time you’re sewing!
11) A Faster Way to Drain Pasta
Draining pasta doesn’t need to take extra time or effort. Instead of using a separate strainer, just place the strainer over the pot and pour out the water.
This method is quicker and more efficient, saving you time during your cooking routine. Next time you’re making pasta, give this hack a shot—it might just become your new favorite way to drain!
12) Jeans Feeling a Little Tight? Try This Trick to Keep Them On!
If your favorite jeans or pants aren’t fitting quite right, don’t rush out to buy new ones just yet! Instead of struggling with the button, grab a hair tie to keep them in place. Simply loop one end of the hair tie around the button, and then thread the other end through the buttonhole.
This easy hack gives you some extra room and keeps your pants comfortably in place without sacrificing style. Next time your jeans feel tight, give this trick a go and keep rocking those favorite pants!
13) Easy Way To Clean Your Kettle
Kettles are often overlooked, but they need a good clean every now and then. To restore your kettle to its sparkling best, simply fill it halfway with water, then add half a cup of white vinegar. Run it on the longest cycle or leave it overnight. In the morning, just rinse it out, and your kettle will be squeaky clean and ready to use!
14) How to Remove Tendons from Chicken Without Wasting Meat
Cleaning raw chicken can be tricky, especially when dealing with tendons. To avoid wasting meat, try this simple trick: use a fork to gently pull out any visible tendons.
Insert the fork’s tines between the tendon and the meat, then press down to cleanly remove the tendon. This method helps you save both time and meat, making your chicken prep faster and easier. Give it a try next time you’re working with raw chicken!
15) Ensure your Drapes are Even and Perfect
Ever wondered how curtains have perfectly spaced holes? Here’s an easy trick to get it right. Simply slide a toilet paper roll between every other hole in your curtains before hanging them.
This ensures they’re spaced evenly and hang perfectly. It’s a no-fuss solution to keeping your drapes looking flawless. No one will ever guess the secret behind your perfectly hung curtains!
16) Prevent Long Dresses From Sliding Off Hangers
Tired of your clothes slipping off hangers? Try these simple tips to keep everything in place. For pants, just thread one leg through the hanger hole, then fold the other leg over it. This keeps them from slipping off. For dresses, fold the corners in and place the hanger around the top or bottom third of the dress.
Pull the hook through, and voilà—your clothes stay put! These easy tricks will help keep your closet organized and your clothes in great shape.
17) How to Cover a Pan with Foil (And Why It Works)
Aluminum foil is your secret weapon for even heat distribution while cooking. To make sure your food cooks perfectly, press the bottom of your pan onto a sheet of foil, molding it snugly around the pan.
This helps eliminate those pesky uneven cooking lines, ensuring your food roasts and bakes just right. Whether you’re a pro or a home cook, this simple hack can elevate your cooking!
18) Grind Coffee with a Cupcake Liner and Keep It Clean
Want to save time and keep your kitchen clean while grinding coffee? Here’s a simple hack: use a coffee filter or a cupcake liner! Just place it over your coffee grinder before you start grinding. It will catch any stray grounds, making cleanup a breeze.
This easy trick keeps your counters mess-free, so you can enjoy your coffee-making process without worrying about the mess.
19) For Years, We’ve Been Eating Cupcakes All Wrong
Here’s a fun twist on eating cupcakes! According to a TikToker, we’ve been doing it wrong all along. Instead of eating a cupcake from the top, try ripping it in half and eating it like a sandwich, Oreo-style.
It may sound odd, but it works! The frosting stays perfectly inside, and you get a nice balance of cake and frosting in every bite. Give it a try next time you have cupcakes—you might never go back to the old way!
20) Keep Your Jeans Cuffed and On Fleek
Want perfectly folded jeans without any sewing or tutorials? All you need is a hair tie! Simply wrap the hair tie around the cuff of your jeans and roll them up to hide it.
This super-easy hack gives you a stylish, cuffed look without having to buy new jeans or spend time trying to get the perfect fit. Plus, it’s a great way to rock those 80s trends! Next time you want to update your denim style, give this quick trick a try!
21) Keep Chips Fresh and Crispy with This Sealing Tip
Love munching on chips, but hate when they go stale? Here’s a simple hack to keep your chips fresh. Instead of leaving the bag open, fold the two corners of the bag, tuck them in, and then fold the top down to the bottom, sealing the sides tightly.
Be sure to remove any extra air before sealing! This keeps your chips fresh and crunchy, so you can enjoy them later without losing flavor. A simple trick that can make your snacks last longer!
22) The Best Way to Reheat Pizza
We all have our favorite ways to reheat pizza, but here’s a method that brings out the best in your leftovers. Instead of using the oven or microwave, place your pizza in a pan and cover it with a lid.
Set the stove to medium heat and leave it for about 5 minutes. The lid traps heat, melting the cheese, while the pan keeps the bottom crispy. This hack will give you a hot, flavorful pizza that’s almost as good as fresh!
23) Quickly Strip Leaves off Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs can elevate your cooking, but prepping them can be a hassle. Whether you’re growing them at home or buying them at the store, here’s a simple hack to make it easier!
All you need is a cheese grater. Just take your herbs and pull them through the grater’s holes. This method quickly separates the leaves from the stems, making it easy to prepare your herbs for use or drying. It’s a great way to make the most out of fresh herbs, especially if you have a small garden or limited space. You’ll definitely taste the difference in your dishes! Give it a try and watch your hard work pay off!
Final Thoughts
These simple hacks can make your daily tasks quicker, easier, and more efficient, whether you’re looking to save time in the kitchen or enhance your style. From keeping your jeans looking on point with just a hair tie to ensuring your pizza reheats perfectly, these clever tricks make life a little smoother. Plus, they help you make the most out of everyday items like coffee filters and fresh herbs. Small adjustments like these can truly make a big difference in how we approach everyday routines—so why not give them a try and see the impact for yourself?
